Get Social

Health care end run reflects frustrations

Topeka Capital Journal (KS)

By Ricardo Alonso-Zaldivar

The Associated Press

WASHINGTON -- Frustrated over setbacks in Congress, President Donald Trump wielded his rule-making power Thursday to launch an end run that might get him closer to his goal of repealing and replacing "Obamacare."

Whether Trump's executive order will be the play that breaks through isn't clear.

Experts say consumers aren't likely to see major changes anytime soon, although the White House is promising lower costs and more options.

Some experts warned that hard-won protections for older adults and people in poor health could be undermined by the skinny lower-premium plans that Trump ordered federal agencies to facilitate. Others say the president's plans will have a modest impact, and might even help.

People on different sides of the health care debate did agree that it will take months for the government bureaucracy to turn Trump's broad-brush goals into actual policies that affect millions of people who buy their own health insurance policies.

"Today is only the beginning," Trump said at the Oval Office signing ceremony.

Democrats denounced Trump's order as more "sabotage," while Republicans called it "bold action" to help consumers. A major small business group praised the president, while doctors, insurers, and state regulators said they have concerns and are waiting to see details.

One of the main ideas from the administration involves easing the way for groups of employers to sponsor coverage that can be marketed across the land. That reflects Trump's longstanding belief that competition across state lines will lead to lower premiums.

Those "association health plans" could be shielded from some state and federal insurance requirements. Responding to concerns, the White House said participating employers could not exclude any workers from the plan, or charge more to those in poor health.

Self-employed people might be able to join.

Other elements of the White House plan include:

--Easing current restrictions on short-term policies that last less than a year -- an option for people making a life transition, from recent college graduates to early retirees. Those policies are not subject to current federal and state rules that require standard benefits and other consumer protections.

--Allowing employers to set aside pre-tax dollars so workers can use the money to buy an individual health policy.